Economy Features

Egypt Waives Visa for Nigerian Diplomats in New Partnership Agreement

In a significant move to enhance bilateral relations, Egypt has announced a visa waiver for Nigerian diplomats as part of a new partnership agreement aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations. This development was made public following a high-level meeting in Cairo, where both countries’ foreign ministers, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar of Nigeria and Badr Abdelatty of Egypt, discussed various aspects of cooperation.

According to statements from both nations’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this visa waiver marks a step forward in elevating the relationship between Egypt and Nigeria to a “Comprehensive Partnership.” This agreement underscores mutual respect for each country’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

The discussions in Cairo outlined several areas of collaboration beyond visa waivers, including security cooperation, which is deemed crucial in light of shared regional challenges such as terrorism and extremism. Both countries have committed to intensify coordination on regional and international issues, aiming to strengthen the African Union’s role in addressing continental challenges and promoting integration.

The partnership also looks towards economic collaboration. Plans were discussed to establish a Nigeria-Egypt Chamber of Commerce by the end of 2025, with a formal launch anticipated during the next round of ministerial-level consultations in Abuja in 2026. This economic initiative is expected to facilitate easier movement and stronger people-to-people connections by adjusting visa fees for citizens of both countries, further reflecting a commitment to mutual growth.

Ambassador Tuggar emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “This agreement not only simplifies travel for our diplomats but also symbolizes our shared vision for a stronger, more integrated Africa. It’s a testament to our commitment to work hand in hand on issues of common interest.”

Echoing this sentiment, Foreign Minister Abdelatty of Egypt noted, “This is just the beginning of a deeper, more meaningful partnership. By removing barriers to diplomatic engagement, we are laying the groundwork for broader cooperation that will benefit both our nations and the continent at large.”

The agreement has been welcomed by various sectors in both countries, with posts on X from media outlets and individuals celebrating this step as a positive move towards enhanced diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties. However, some have expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the need for tangible results in the implementation of these agreements.

This visa waiver comes at a time when both countries are marking 65 years of diplomatic relations in 2025, with Egypt being the first African country to establish diplomatic ties with Nigeria. The next session of the Joint Committee at the ministerial level is scheduled for the last quarter of 2025, underscoring the ongoing commitment to deepening bilateral relations.

As both nations look forward to this new chapter, the focus will be on the practical outcomes of this partnership, hoping it will pave the way for a more prosperous and secure future for their citizens and contribute positively to the stability and development of the African continent.

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